British Dictionary definitions for adsorption

adsorb

/ (ədˈsɔːb, -ˈzɔːb) /

verb

to undergo or cause to undergo a process in which a substance, usually a gas, accumulates on the surface of a solid forming a thin film, often only one molecule thickto adsorb hydrogen on nickel; oxygen adsorbs on tungsten Compare absorb (def. 8)

Medical definitions for adsorption (2 of 2)

v.

Scientific definitions for adsorption

adsorption

[ ăd-sôrp′shən ]

The process by which molecules of a substance, such as a gas or a liquid, collect on the surface of another substance, such as a solid. The molecules are attracted to the surface but do not enter the solid's minute spaces as in absorption. Some drinking water filters consist of carbon cartridges that adsorb contaminants. Compare absorption.